In a statement from the office of the president, Kiir called on the newly appointed officials to demonstrate dedication and commitment to national service. “Let’s focus on addressing the challenges facing our nation,” he stated, emphasising the need for unity among South Sudanese to tackle the country’s pressing issues.
Mr Kiir urged Yel and Reat to foster collaboration with other institutions to promote peace and cohesion in a nation on the verge of renewed political turmoil.
Gen. Reat replaces Lt. Gen. Simon Yien Makuac, who had served as the General Intelligence Bureau director since April 2021. Reat, who was promoted to First Lieutenant General in the National Security Service (NSS) as part of the reshuffle, previously held the role of Presidential Advisor on National Security Affairs for just three months before his appointment to the intelligence chief position.
Little public information is available about Reat’s prior career, but his rapid transition between high-level roles suggests Kiir’s confidence in his ability to navigate South Sudan’s complex security landscape.
Meanwhile, Yel steps into the role of Presidential Advisor on National Security Affairs. While specific details about Yel’s previous professional experience are scarce, sources indicate he has a background in military and security operations, earning him recognition within South Sudan’s security establishment.
His appointment follows a pattern of Kiir relying on trusted military figures to fill critical advisory roles as he seeks to stabilise his administration amid growing political and ethnic rifts.
The appointments of the pair come at a critical juncture for South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, which has faced renewed fears of civil war following the house arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar in March 2025.
The detention, coupled with escalating ethnic violence and a faltering 2018 peace agreement, has heightened concerns about the country’s stability. Kiir’s decision to reshuffle key security positions appears to be part of an effort to consolidate control.
